What Functions Does a BMW Key Fob Have?

If you own a BMW, chances are that your key fob comes with a lot of functions. It can be used to unlock your doors, manage your windows and even start your engine.

There are some tricks you might not be aware of. Here are a few of the most effective.

Functions

The BMW key fob is a tiny, rectangular piece of plastic that has many buttons built into its side. The majority of the buttons are used to lock and unlock the vehicle, but some have additional functions. For instance, BMW owners can activate a hidden function on the key fob to lower all their windows simultaneously by pressing the unlock button two times. This is a great option for those who wish to cool down their vehicle during the scorching summer days.

Another significant function of the BMW key fob is that it can be used to start the car. This is a fantastic security precaution that prevents unauthorised entry into the vehicle. To start the vehicle, the driver needs to first turn off the lock on the key fob, and then press the circular arrow. For newer BMW models the feature can be used to remotely start the car. This is especially useful in a situation where the driver is in a hurry for work and doesn't have the time to get out of the car and open the door.

The BMW key fob can also be used for controlling the interior climate system. This is especially useful for people who travel with several individuals as each key fob is able to set the preferred temperature for each individual. The key fob on a hybrid BMW can be used to monitor the battery's charging status.

Dropping them into water is not recommended. It is recommended to keep the key fob in its case that is protected when not in use. If you happen to lose the key fob, a service can be provided that will deactivate it, making it inaccessible to thieves. Contacting the dealer or our technicians can do this. You can purchase a new BMW key fob to re-establish the functionality of your vehicle.

Design

BMW key fobs were once big, clunky rectangles in black that, from a distance, looked like a bottle opener. They were simple, but functional. BMW then made them smaller and put a plastic casing around the base to make it appear more attractive and less like the key opener. This new design also minimized the rough edges of keys that could poke through pockets or bags and made the keys easier to hold.

BMW then introduced the Display Key which puts all the functions of your car in your palm. It lets you lock and unlock your car, operate your air conditioning, and see the vehicle's information on a small LCD touchscreen on the BMW key fob. It even offers remote parking on hybrid models!

If you're in need of a replacement, you can get the same great function by using a BMW Digital Key. You can use any smartphone compatible to replace the BMW key fob, and then unlock your vehicle! This feature is available on 2021 or more recent BMW cars that use the iDrive 8 operating system.

The Connected Remote key is a innovative key from BMW that lets you start your vehicle and operate certain functions using your smartphone. The app allows you to remotely manage your car's climate control and monitor battery levels. You can see how much fuel is left in your car, if it's equipped with this feature.

Whether you're using a BMW Digital Key or a traditional key fob, the process of getting a replacement is similar. Our technicians will help you in the process if you bring both your old key and new one to Patrick BMW. You can also purchase an BMW Key Protection Plan, which will cover the cost of replacement when keys are lost or stolen.

If you do lose your BMW key, don't panic! The first thing you need to do is reset the key. This will erase all programming and render it unusable. This is accomplished by turning the key to position one and back quickly five times in the same row. Then you can turn the key to position zero and remove it from the ignition.

Security

The BMW Digital Key is a convenient way to start your vehicle. The fob pairs with your smartphone or Apple Watch and works with BMW Connected Drive to unlock the vehicle and start the engine and more. You can also share the key with five people.

The key fob communicates with vehicle via encrypted signals. It is therefore extremely difficult for hackers and cloners to get the signal. The UWB technology of the BMW Digital Key also prevents relay attacks even if it is in motion. The system employs an alarm to stop unauthorised starting and disables the ignition switch.

BMW also offers a variety of security options available including Passive Start, which disables the starter motor when the key fob is not within close proximity to the vehicle. This feature is offered on a number of BMW models and can provide additional security.

BMW's most advanced models come with keyless entry, which allows users to start their vehicle without having manually inserting a key or pressing any buttons. This feature is typically activated by pressing the lock button on the fob three times in a single second. In some cases it may be necessary to press the lock button on the fob three times, and then switch on a separate remote start feature in the dashboard or on the steering wheel.

Some people prefer to carry their BMW key fob in a pouch with a signal blocker, which reduces the risk of a third party broadcasting the identification signal from the fob and using it to gain access to the car. Others prefer to use the standard key case which doesn't have this feature, but can protect the fob from scratches.

A few BMW owners have reported that their cars have been stolen by thieves who used a signal amplifier to boost the identifying signal. This kind of attack, also known as "Relay Attack", can be prevented by placing the key fob into an area that blocks signals, or by installing an app on your phone to block signals.

Replacement

Everyone has had this experience - the battery in your BMW key fob fails or you have to purchase another one for your family. Thankfully, getting a replacement BMW key fob and programming it into your vehicle is easy and affordable. BMW authorized dealers or locksmiths can sell you an alternative key fob. A new key fob costs between $400 and $650, depending here on the type BMW you drive.

Make sure that there isn't other ignition key in your BMW before you begin programming a new keyfob. Close all doors of your vehicle. Put your new key fob in the ignition and swiftly turn it from position 1 to position 0, and back to position 1. Press the unlock button, then press the BMW logo on your BMW keyfob. Once you have completed this, remove the key and turn on the vehicle. The doors will lock and unlock, indicating that your new key fob has been successfully programmed.

Based on the model of your car, you might have a key blade on your key fob or one that isn't. The process of synchronizing new fobs with your car is different for each one however, the steps are similar. The only difference is that the fob with a metal key in it will need to be inserted into the ignition when you are ready to start your car.

If you own an BMW with Comfort Access, the process is even easier. Once you have programmed the new key fob, simply connect it to the ignition of your car and press the start button.

While your BMW is a fantastic way to get around Decatur however, it is vital to keep your key fob in good working condition. Patrick BMW's parts department can assist you locate a new BMW fob or a replacement. We can assist you in finding the right key fob for your vehicle and even upgrade your BMW by introducing an upgrade to Comfort Access to allow keyless entry and engine starting.